U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1992

Indian Ethics

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

The right is to work only, but never with its fruits. This is stated in which of the following book?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept The philosophy of 'Nishkama Karma' (selfless action) is the cornerstone of the Gita's ethics, intended to provide spiritual stability in the face of conflict.

Explanation Found in Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 2, Verse 47: *'Karmany evadhikaras te ma phalesu kadacana'*. It means one has authority over action, but never over its results.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Attachment to results leads to anxiety and failure of duty. Krishna advises Arjuna to act as a witness to his own actions.
Logic 2: It bridges the gap between the life of a householder/warrior and the life of an ascetic by making action itself a form of sacrifice.

Active Recall

Question

What is the primary psychological benefit of the 'fruitless' action approach?

Answer

It reduces performance anxiety and prevents the ego from being bruised by outcomes beyond its control.

Core Insight

The Gita redefines renunciation not as the abandonment of work, but as the abandonment of the desire for personal gain from work.